Liberty, NY – Sullivan County will open its Liberty warming shelter tonight (Tuesday, November 15) and keep it open every night of the winter season from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. The shelter is located at the Liberty United Methodist Church at 170 North Main Street.
“In collaboration with the State, we have sufficient funding to keep this warming center available throughout the winter to anyone who needs it, and we’re working on doing the same at the Ted Stroebele Recreation Center in Monticello, though that location is not yet in operation,” said Sullivan County Health & Human Services Commissioner John Liddle. “In addition to the benefit to the public, staying open seven nights a week makes it easier for our valued partners, who run these shelters, to ensure adequate staffing and supplies.”
During the daytime hours, various public buildings (like the Government Center in Monticello), stores and libraries are available as places to get warm, and Sullivan County’s Department of Social Services can assist in more challenging circumstances (845-292-0100).
In addition, the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) – which can provide funds for fuel and heating system repair/replacement – is currently taking applications. For more information, call 845-807-0142.
For a warm meal, from 12-1 p.m. Mondays through Fridays (except holidays), the Federation for the Homeless at 9 Monticello Street in Monticello offers takeout food, and afterhours emergency food requests can be made to the Federation at 845-798-8774. The Federation’s pantry is open to all (no documentation required) from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. every Friday, as well.